A new “learning village” costing £8.5 million is planned for pupils with special needs in Dudley which the council say will be the first of its kind in the borough.

Dudley Council wants to relocate Old Park Special School on the Russells Hall estate to a new building between Thorns Community College and Thorns Primary School, Quarry Bank.

The council is now asking for the views of staff, parents and pupils.

A presentation was due to be delivered to the press later today attended by the headteacher from the Thorns Community College but the headteacher of Old Park Special School was not attending.

Councillor Liz Walker, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This is a really exciting proposal for all three schools.”

An application will be submitted early next year for the new school. Building work could start at the end of next year.

To view proposals or leave any comments visit www.dudley.gov.uk/education-and-learning.

What do you think about the plans? Let us know by calling our reporters on 01384 353201.